TYT MD-UV390 vs Y23UV-98PLUS

It depends on your needs. The MD-UV390 offers DMR capability and IP67 water resistance, while the Y23UV-98PLUS provides APRS and GPS features at lower cost with double the transmit power. These are fundamentally different radios for different purposes, not direct competitors.

The single most important differentiator is digital mode support. The MD-UV390 is DMR-capable; the Y23UV-98PLUS is not. Conversely, the Y23UV-98PLUS includes APRS and GPS navigation, which the MD-UV390 lacks entirely. The Y23UV-98PLUS also costs $43 less and transmits at 10W versus 5W.

The MD-UV390 suits operators who prioritize DMR networking and need confirmed water resistance for fieldwork, which the IP67 rating provides. The Y23UV-98PLUS is better for users who want APRS tracking and GPS positioning without DMR requirements. Owners report 4.0 stars for both, though the MD-UV390 has significantly more reviews.

Choose the MD-UV390 if you operate on DMR networks. Choose the Y23UV-98PLUS if you need APRS and GPS mapping capabilities. Do not base this decision on the overall score difference; it reflects their different feature sets and prices, not overall quality.